Parent/Legal Guardian

Your teen has finally arrived at a time he or she has been looking forward to -- learning to drive! This will be a memorable experience for both of you because you are a critical part of your teen's driver education.

You may not realize it but already you serve as a driving coach and role model for your teen. Your teen watches what you do and looks to you for guidance and expertise.

While your teen is driving with a Graduated Level 1 Learner's License, you will be asked to ride along with him or her. Either you or another responsible licensed adult age 21 or older must accompany and supervise your teen during these practice sessions. You should sit in the front passenger seat to supervise. The law requires you to certify that your teen has spent a minimum of 50 hours behind the wheel, including 10 at night, when he or she applies for a Level 2 license. To assist you in helping your teen become a safe and confident driver, we created The Parent's Supervised Driving Guide to provide the tools and information you'll need along the way.

Take as long as necessary to ensure that your teen is ready to take the driving-skills test and prepared to navigate the roads solo. Please know and understand the Graduated Driver Licensing law and what is expected from you and your teen, including the nighttime and passenger restrictions.

Good Luck!

The Michigan Department of State

What's your role?
Learn about your role in helping your teen steer into a lifetime of safe driving.